The Roast of John Cleese (2024)

Review Team

4/5

The Roast of John Cleese serves as a delightful tribute to a comedy legend, showcasing an impressive array of Australian talent. Hosted by Shane Jacobson, the special features a line-up of skilled comedians, each bringing their unique flair to the stage. The atmosphere is electric, with laughter ech ... Show more >> The Roast of John Cleese serves as a delightful tribute to a comedy legend, showcasing an impressive array of Australian talent. Hosted by Shane Jacobson, the special features a line-up of skilled comedians, each bringing their unique flair to the stage. The atmosphere is electric, with laughter echoing through the venue as roasters take their turns delivering both affectionate and sharp jabs at Cleese. The pacing feels just right, balancing humour with moments of genuine admiration for Cleese’s vast contributions to comedy. Each performer brings their own style, creating a rich tapestry of comedic styles that keep the audience engaged. While some jokes may land better than others, the overall experience is a joyous celebration of laughter. This roast not only entertains but also reaffirms Cleese's status as an iconic figure in comedy. It is a must-watch for fans of Cleese and comedy alike. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

The Roast of John Cleese is a mixed bag, offering some hearty laughs along with a few awkward moments. While the premise is undeniably appealing, the execution can feel uneven. The comedians, including the likes of Tom Gleeson and Joel Creasey, deliver a range of jokes that sometimes hit the mark, b ... Show more >> The Roast of John Cleese is a mixed bag, offering some hearty laughs along with a few awkward moments. While the premise is undeniably appealing, the execution can feel uneven. The comedians, including the likes of Tom Gleeson and Joel Creasey, deliver a range of jokes that sometimes hit the mark, but there are instances where the humour falls flat. It’s a bit of a rollercoaster – some roasts are sharp and witty, while others might leave you scratching your head. Cleese himself is a gracious target, taking the jabs with humour and style, but the special occasionally feels more like a collection of stand-up routines than a cohesive roast. For die-hard fans of Cleese, it’s an entertaining watch, but it may not resonate as strongly for those unfamiliar with his work. Overall, it’s an enjoyable evening but might leave some viewers wanting more in terms of depth and cohesion. Show less